‘Ekstra’ in NY filmfest; ‘Bwaya’ wins in France

VILMA SANTOS in ‘Ekstra’

Multi-awarded independent film “Ekstra (The Bit Player)” is set to compete in this year’s New York Festivals (NYF).

The indie, which earned Vilma Santos a best actress trophy in the Director’s Showcase category of the Cinemalaya Independent Film Festival in 2013, is nominated in NYF’s Best Feature Film category.

Directed by Jeffrey Jeturian for Star Cinema and Quantum Films, “Ekstra” is about the life of Loida Malabanan (Vilma), a hardworking single mother who passionately works as a bit player for television and movies.

“Ekstra” also features Ruby Ruiz, Tart Carlos, Cherie Gil, Pilar Pilapil, among others, with the special participation of Richard Yap, Marian Rivera, and Piolo Pascual.

According to its official site, NYF honors movies “that would encourage the next generation of story-tellers and talent.”

The NYF’s opening gala is on April 14.

ANGELI BAYANI in ‘Bwaya’

Meanwhile, Francis Xavier Pasion’s “Bwaya (Crocodile)” won the Cyclo D’Or at the 21st FICA (Festival International des Cinemas d’Asie) – Vesoul International Film Festival of Asian Cinema (VIFFAC) in France on Feb. 24.

An entry to New Breed section of the 10th Cinemalaya, “Bwaya” tells the story of story of a woman and her daughter who were killed by a crocodile in Mindanao’s Agusan Marsh. - by Rowena Tan (Manila Bulletin)